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'Downs proved they're ready for Africa - Mabunda

Pretoria - Ahead of their crucial CAF Champions League clash against Enyimba of Nigeria, Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Tiyani Mabunda believes that it is going to be a tough battle between the two sides but the Brazilians are ready for the Peoples Elephants.

The Chloorkop side will host the Nigerian giants in a much anticipated CAF encounter at the Lucas Moripe Stadium in Attredgville on Wednesday, June 29. 

The former Black Leopards player said that he is optimistic that Sundowns will not disappoint the South African football fraternity as they have shown their capabilities on the biggest stage.

"It's going to be a tough game yes I believe that but we as Sundowns have proved that we're ready to compete in Africa with our recent win in Algeria," said Mabunda.

"We believe that we're capable of going all the way and I know that Enyimba are going to come at us considering that they have lost the last game to Zamalek but we're ready for them."

Mabunda scored a brilliant goal in their previous game against ES Setif but it will not count going forward.

The North African giants were banned from this years continental showpiece due to their supporters violence, but Mabunda said it will still be a confidence booster for him and the Pretoria based team.

"It's just unfortunate that it won't count anymore but I believe that it's a big booster from my side and the team," said the 28-year-old.

"It really showed to us that we can actually compete at the highest level.

"So I think that if I could score a goal like that on my CAF debut, it's a motivation for me to keep shooting from range."

Kick-off is at 19:30.

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